By We Level Up | Editor Yamilla Francese | Clinically Reviewed By Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS, Director of Quality Assurance | Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Last Updated: January 13, 2023

Percocet Addiction FAQs

Percocet Addiction Statistics

Not only heroin but also prescription opioids like Percocet are to blame for the present opioid problem in America. It’s hardly surprising that so many people are dealing with this kind of chemical dependency issue given the sharp spike in the number of prescriptions made for drugs like Percocet. In reality, since 2000, the number of fatal overdoses and opioid-related deaths has surged by 300%, with more women than males actually developing addicted to painkillers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overuse of painkillers—including Percocet—has climbed by 270 percent among males and 400 percent among women. Given these startling figures, it’s critical that folks who abuse Percocet or other drugs get the help they so desperately require to preserve their own lives.

Understanding Percocet Addiction

When used as prescribed by a doctor, this medicine can help someone whose ability to go about their daily activities due to moderate to severe pain. On the other side, if this medicine is used inappropriately, a euphoric high can be experienced combined with a substance dependency issue that can be extremely difficult to treat without getting expert help.

If you’ve ever misused Percocet, you’re certainly familiar with the withdrawal symptoms that can appear when you can no longer obtain more of it or are attempting to stop taking it. You should also be aware that Percocet does not have to control how you spend your life. At a good addiction treatment center, you can get expert assistance, learn how to withstand Percocet or other drug cravings, and develop the self-assurance and skills required to lead a sober lifestyle.

Don’t let another day go by while you are still dependent on Percocet. It’s time to reclaim your life and start living the healthy life that everyone deserves.

Percocet Addiction And Abuse

This is a strong pain reliever most often prescribed for intense, short-term pain after surgery or trauma, but it is also sometimes used for clients with severe chronic pain.  In addition, Percocet is often seen as a safer way to get high because it is legal to purchase (it is available with a prescription).

However, this is still widely abused for its narcotic effect.  A high enough dose can result in a sense of euphoria similar to that experienced by heroin users.  Abuse can lead to Percocet Addiction or something harder.

Percocet Addiction Signs

Abuse of the drug Percocet may be more visible in some persons but less so in others. You may or may not be dealing with the following symptoms, depending on how much of this painkiller you’re taking, how long you’ve been taking it, whether you’re mixing it with other medicines, and whether you’re physically dependent on it:

Effects Of Percocet Addiction

You should prepare for a lot of interpersonal conflict if you keep abusing Percocet. The following are among the many effects of battling a Percocet addiction that are most frequently mentioned by persons who have sought treatment and are now in recovery from this kind of chemical dependency issue:

• Suicidal tries.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Relationship tension.
• Social exclusion.
• Sexually inappropriate.
• Job loss.
• Getting involved with the legal system.
• Homelessness.
• Financial difficulties.
• Family strife.
• Eye issues.
• Developmental issues with mental health.
• Heart and lung damage.
• Persistent unemployment.

Social Signs Of Percocet Addiction

Percocet can be difficult to obtain because it requires a prescription.  Many people cannot obtain enough Percocet through legal means, such as a prescription from a doctor.  Therefore, people who are addicted may try anything to get the drug.  Individuals who are addicted may turn to steal medication from friends, family members, or strangers or forging prescriptions. 

They may pretend to lose their prescription or frequently request new ones.  They may file false police reports so pharmacies will give them more medication.  Some addicts will also visit multiple doctors or pharmacies, so they aren’t as likely to get caught.  Percocet use and abuse can cause a person to develop obvious mannerisms like appearing high or unusually excitable.  Alternately, some people also appear sedated or excessively tired.

Consequences Of Percocet Addiction

Opioids like Percocet can cause serious health complications. It can also slow a person’s breathing, which may cause them to stop breathing entirely. It’s even possible to fall into a coma or die as a result of an overdose.

A person addicted to Percocet may be more likely to use other illegal drugs or prescription medications.  In addition, certain combinations of medications can be lethal.

An addiction can affect work performance and personal relationships.  In addition, people who abuse Percocet sometimes engage in risky behaviors.  This may lead to motor vehicle accidents or accidents that cause bodily harm.  People who are addicted may also find themselves involved in criminal activity, especially if they decide to steal, forge a prescription, or lie to get more pills.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Abuse of Percocet has the potential to worsen pre-existing mental health issues or to lead to the emergence of new problems that can have a negative impact on a person’s life. Know that there is assistance and hope available if you are dealing with a Percocet addiction along with other mental health issues. In addition to providing assistance for treating Percocet usage, many programs also provide therapy for the co-occurring disorders listed below:

• Trauma-related stress disorder (PTSD)
• Further drug use disorders
• Depressive illnesses
• Bipolar illnesses
• Anxiety conditions
• Disorder of the antisocial personality

Withdrawal & Overdose

Effects of Percocet withdrawal: If you quit taking Percocet after becoming addicted to it for a protracted period of time, you may experience withdrawal symptoms similar to those associated with other opioids. You will require expert assistance to overcome this sort of addiction because of the withdrawal symptoms listed below:

• Moist eyes
• Shakes & twitches
• Clogged nose
• Pupillary enlargement
• Percocet addiction desires that are really strong
• Excessive perspiration
• High body temperature
• Dysphoria
• Diarrhea

Effects of a Percocet Overdose: Because Percocet is such a dangerous prescription pain reliever, consuming too much of it can undoubtedly result in an overdose. You may be having an overdose if you take too much Percocet, and you’ll require emergency medical care to recover from this kind of problem as well as the accompanying symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Unsteady speech
• Slow heartbeat
• Nausea
• No memory
• Consciousness loss
• Arduous breathing
• Coma
• Cramps in the abdomen

Percocet Addiction Treatment

As with any opiate addiction, treating a Percocet addiction can be difficult, but many options are available.  The rehabilitation is similar to that for other prescription opiates, such as OxyContin or morphine.

The detox is often the most physically difficult step in the process, as withdrawal symptoms from Percocet can be intense.  Many recovering addicts cite muscle aches and insomnia as the most difficult symptoms they face.  Undergoing detox with a medical professional can help ease the process.

Once former addict is ready to reintegrate into society, they can find continuing support groups through outpatient treatment at one of the many successful treatment centers across the country.

Take control of your addiction.  Contact a dedicated treatment provider now for more information about rehab for a Percocet addiction.

Our rehabilitation program is underpinned by the 12-steps, one of the most well-known and effective addiction treatment methods.  A powerful tool for spiritual development, the 12-steps focus on remaining abstinent through helping others.

We also offer:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Experiential Therapy
• Dual Diagnosis
• Individual and Group Therapy
• Psychoeducational Lectures
• Family Therapy
• 12-step Program
• Continuing Care

We Level Up Treatment Center provides world-class care with round-the-clock medical professionals available to help you cope.  We work as an integrated team providing information about What is Percocet and other aspects of treatment.  Make this your opportunity to reclaim your life.  Call today to speak with one of our treatment specialists.  Our specialists know what you are going through and will answer any of your questions and how to get Percocet addiction help.

Your call is private and confidential, and there is never any obligation.

Check out our facilities in California, Florida, and New Jersey.